Thu Jan 02 08:19:38 UTC 2025: ## Supreme Court Reprimands Punjab Government Over Farmer’s Hunger Strike
**New Delhi, January 2, 2025** – The Supreme Court today rebuked the Punjab government and certain farmer leaders for allegedly misrepresenting the court’s position regarding the ongoing hunger strike by farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal. The court clarified that it has never ordered the termination of Mr. Dallewal’s protest but is solely concerned about his health and insists on immediate medical intervention.
Justice Surya Kant expressed concern over what he described as irresponsible statements made to the media, potentially exacerbating the situation. The bench questioned the bona fides of some farmer leaders involved, prompting Punjab Advocate General Gurminder Singh to deny any attempt to complicate the matter and assure the court that efforts are underway to persuade Mr. Dallewal to accept medical assistance without ending his fast.
The Supreme Court directed the Punjab Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, who appeared virtually, to file affidavits confirming their compliance with a December 20th order mandating the transfer of Mr. Dallewal to nearby state-provided medical facilities. The case has been adjourned until January 6th.
Furthermore, the court issued a notice to the central government in response to a new petition filed on Mr. Dallewal’s behalf, demanding the fulfillment of promises made to protesting farmers in 2021 following the repeal of farm laws, including a legally guaranteed minimum support price (MSP) for crops. The ongoing hunger strike at the Khanauri border in Sangrur district continues to attract significant attention.
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